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Used 2005 Honda Pilot Consumer Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
396 reviews

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4.88 out of 5 stars

I love my Pilot, even at 187,000 miles!

hampton6410, 08/20/2012
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather, Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
62 of 62 people found this review helpful

We bought our Pilot used in 2009 and now even at 187,000 miles it still drives just as good. We have not had any major issues and only do the Honda recommended maintenance. We do change the oil at 3000 mile intervals, not 5,000. The Pilot has been a great car overall. The only thing that I wish was better was the gas mileage. We have also owned two CRV's and currently own a 2005 Accord, and all have been great. We have had no major issues even with our 2003 CRV with 197,000 miles that we just traded in on the Accord.

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5 out of 5 stars

10 year old Honda Pilot...strong vehicle.

Chris Williamson, 06/16/2016
updated 12/27/2016
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
44 of 44 people found this review helpful

I've always wanted an SUV. Dreamt of driving a Ford Explorer. Then I came across this Honda Pilot at the dealership's used lot. It had one adult owner and meticulous records, taken in for oil changes, maintenance, and repair like clockwork. So it was in great condition and it showed. I've now been driving it for a few months and I love it! It has 3 rows of seats in case I need to haul people, but those fold down to create a lot of cargo space if I need to haul equipment. It's a 2005 so of course I upgraded the stereo (had a tape player lol). The speakers are next. the starter went out as did the AC. The starter was a pain to fix but I did it myself. The AC I haven't taken in yet. Hopefully it doesn't cost too much. Overall a great ride!

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Great even after 250k miles!

Luke E., 01/31/2019
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather, Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
40 of 42 people found this review helpful

Perhaps the number one problem consumers have with this car (based on reviews and word-of-mouth) is that the radiators fail. This is common for this year of Pilot in particular, and involves the intra-radiator transmission cooler fittings failing and mixing fluids. Antifreeze is really horrible on automatic transmission clutch packs and burns them out quickly (when, not if), leaving you with a time bomb of a vehicle. Fortunately (though I didn't think it was fortunate when reading the Carfax!), my Pilot was involved in an front-end collision when it was nearly new, resulting in a new unit being installed and removing the radiator that was part of the "bad batch." I have since bypassed the radiator cooler with an external unit (and temp gauge for good measure) and have had no issues (the pan temp remains below 160 at all times). This was because the current "replacement" radiator has over 200,000 miles on it and I didn't want to take any chances on the fittings failing again. However, if you own this vintage of Pilot, I would recommend you either replace the radiator or bypass it with an aftermarket transmission cooler ASAP. Most of the bigger RV-rated air coolers are more than sufficient. As for other maintenance items, I do all my own work so the following list of replacements should be taken with a grain of salt and do not consider labor costs. So far, I have replaced the alternator, both manifold pre-catalytic converters (the rear bank was a particular PITA), the ground strap, had to seal the fender grommets (was leaking into the cabin), replace exhaust rubber hangers, and do a valve adjustment. Everything else was standard maintenance including two timing belts, batteries, tires, spark plugs, fluid changes, etc. I would not trade this Pilot for the world. My only gripe is that it does not have side curtain airbags; it only has front side airbags. However, I knew this when I bought the vehicle. It has been flawless thus far with regular fluid changes, and I wouldn't give up my car for anything. The drivetrain is strong enough that it will last to 400k. The interior is spartan (to be generous), but I love my Pilot!

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Powerfull fun car!

Pilotman08, 03/01/2017
updated 10/05/2020
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
35 of 37 people found this review helpful

My 2005 pilot has 205,500 miles on it currently sitting. We take it all over Colorado. I am a college student with a 2 hour commute each day and this car just makes it so enjoyable. The ride is excellent. It’s very smooth (luxury car smooth) and it’s got a weighty feel to the ride making it feel very secure and planted on the road. Road and wind noise is pretty good in terms of being quiet, but it could be a little better. Steering is moderately heavy not super light or too heavy, adds to the planted feel. Braking is not the best given it’s 4500 pounds, so be prepared to replace brake pads quite often along with tires. The engine is probably the best part of the driving experience, it’s got a ton of character. Driving the pilot around town, it’s got a strong acceleration feel off the line and the gas pedal is a little too sensitive at first (easy to get used to) so it feels quite fast. Easy to beat people from a red light to merge or change lanes. Floor it and the engine sounds way to good after you cross vtec. People say the engine lacks low end torque, but I think this car has lots of torque. Floor it from a stop and the steering wheel jerks to the right (and it’s 4wd), it’s just a side effect of a really really peppy engine. Mine at 204k beat my friends 2004 cayenne v6 in a race time and time again, so it’s saying something there (even though the v6 cayennes are basically a v6 Touareg). Highway merging and passing are extremely easy with this engine and confidence inspiring. Visibility both forward backwards and also out the sides is excellent and confidence inspiring. Interior is free of rattles or creaks and each and every part is still fit in place like it’s new. No scratches on any interior panel either. Seats look brand new and are sort of firm, but extremely supportive And way to comfy (excellent bolstering and grip). It makes me sleepy sometimes lol. Interior is all hard plastic minus where you keep your elbows, but the plastic doesn’t feel cheap and hollow, and the interior feels quite nice for the price. In the 200k+ miles that I’ve owned this car, the only issues were the ac going out at 130k and replacing brake pads and tires way to often. Recently my motor mount wore off but that’s just going to happen on each and every car. Transmission is still holding up as we speak and I continue to beat the crap out of this car (random full throttle accelerations, racing friends, fast turns, and hard braking) so it’s probably the reason why my tires and brakes wear out so often, but this drivetrain was meant to be beat on! The car loves to rev and the engine and transmission are holding up extremely well for my style of driving (I give it 25% throttle at every stop light) for the last 4 years. Oh forgot to mention that the cargo room is absolutely massive. With the third row seats up it’s a little tight and the third row itself is cramped and best suited for small adults or kids but with the seats down and even the second row seats down you can practically sleep in it without your feet touching the tailgate. I RECOMMEND THIS CAR HIGHLY FOR ANYONE WHOS LOOKING FOR A DECENTLY FUN TO DRIVE, COMFORTABLE, AND PRACTICAL CAR THATS EXTREMELY RELIABLE AND WITH A VERY PEPPY ENGINE

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Our Pilot

Piloteer101, 01/31/2016
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather, Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
21 of 22 people found this review helpful

After out 2010 Chrysler Town & Country was totaled we found this beauty on the lot. It's pretty to look at, the paint on this thing is AMAZING. We like that the outside looks small, but there's 8 seats. It's really fun and smooth to drive too. Just wish that you could get DVD entertainment along with Navigation at the same time, not sure why that wasn't possible.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4 out of 5 stars

love after 10 years

lena, 10/20/2015
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather, Navigation (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
23 of 25 people found this review helpful

I had times with 13 mpg in the city traffic holdups. So prepare to pay for gas. Reliable, but dealer maintenance prices are $500-650 after a few years.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
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4.75 out of 5 stars

Love this car. Hate the mileage

EGuy78, 08/20/2010
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful

This is my favorite car that I've ever owned. I love everything about it, except the mileage. But, I'm willing to look past that! Love the center console in the front seat. Love the cargo room. Love the spacious back seats. Love the looks. Love the pep. It really is a fantastic car! We've always had Hondas, but for some reason, I wasn't interested in the Pilot until we drove it, and now, I'm hooked. Best car ever.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

All wheel drive

Pedro Cortez, 07/16/2009
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
19 of 21 people found this review helpful

The car is great. Except the All wheel drive maintenance! I change the engine oil every 3K, but the differential HAS to be changed every 5K (6K). This is pricey at every other oil change. Other than that, I would probably buy another one, in 12 years. I also found and replaced the air filter with a cold air intake. A little bit better gas mileage, and bit better performance off the line.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Comfortable and a workhorse

Debra, 07/25/2006
2005 Honda Pilot LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful

I have always liked my Honda Pilot, but a recent long trip really showed what this car can do. I had a class-3 trailer hitch installed and pulled a 6x12 U-haul trailer full of furniture and household goods from New Orleans to New York City. My Pilot had no trouble pulling this load in the mountains or in the city. It was my first time to pull a trailer, but I felt safe with my Pilot. I was warned to watch the temperature gauge in the mountains, but the needle never wavered off the "normal" level. Going down mountains with that heavy trailer behind me, I put the Pilot in D3 and never had to touch my brakes to keep my speed down. The Pilot really performed well for me on this trip.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

2005 Honda Pilot EX-L-RES

charles, 06/29/2008
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
32 of 37 people found this review helpful

First of two new Pilots we own. Bought a 2007 just because of how great this vehicle performs. We are a tall family and like the expansive window area. This one was hit(at 33000mi) in the rear by a '06 Infinity G35x. Totaled the Infinity but only damaged the rear bumper, tailgate, exhaust, driver, passenger seat and cross member. Honda repaired and drives straight as an arrow. Still very reliable at 49,000 mi. Need tires by winter(dealer say most pilots tires do not last this long-We drive city/hwy and mountain roads) Get 20 mpg with air conditioning on or off.

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3.13 out of 5 stars

durability questionable

honda_critic, 05/13/2011
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
21 of 24 people found this review helpful

Blown engine at 74k miles. No consideration or assistance from Honda Headquarters. No assistance from Rt 23 Honda in Pompton Plains NJ Car was garage kept and maintenance schedule done at dealer. Filter and oil changed every 5K. car ran well until after sitting in garage for 1 week while on vacation. Starting the car caused car to lurch and make rattling noise from engine. Car Faltbed delivered to dealer who started the car to determine problem. In doing so continued the rattling noise causing the connecting rod to push though the block and oil pan. The dealer called to say the engine was blown and asked if I had driven though high water. No was the answer. Result Honda wants $6+K for fix

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5 out of 5 stars

Proud Pilot Owner

KellyMarie, 10/14/2010
2005 Honda Pilot LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful

I've had my pilot for about 8 months now. Between work, college, and family I put many miles on my pilot and find it is still very reliable. Although it cost me more than I wanted to spend this car is truly a great investment. I bought it knowing that I will have a family someday and this vehicle will stand the test of time. Got into an accident a month after I bought it. Totaled half of the other vehicle. My pilot had nothing but a scratch on the bumper and I didn't even know I hit the other car. Safety is one of the best features of the Pilot. I never felt the impact of the accident! I spent a year researching before making my purchase. Glad I picked the Pilot!

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5 out of 5 stars

Going strong at 162K

BG Jim, 03/31/2019
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful

Bought this used with 48K. Been a great SUV. My radiator failed at 162K miles, which hosed my transmission. Found out later that this is common with 2005s, so if you have that year, change your radiator out before it fails. That said, I spent $2K to rebuild the trans and plan on driving for 5 more years. It is that good of a car and the rebuilt trans is the way to go.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Great honda

honda lover, 10/05/2010
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful

Had nothing to say but good things, I think it looks way and much better than the new one.

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5 out of 5 stars

used 2008 exl pilot

Peter 2005 and 2008, 07/19/2017
updated 07/20/2018
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

The best bad road handling car and versatile suv in my opinion. 20+ mpg. Totally reliable and rust free in Wisconsin. Easy to maintain. Radio is poor. Fantastic suv! Versatile!

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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1 out of 5 stars

Rusted Subframe

Not a Happy Honda Owner, 04/26/2021
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather, Navigation (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

I thought this was a vehicle I'd drive well over my normal vehicle total mileage of 250,000 miles. It has been reliable enough that I've kept it as my main vehicle and currently has 217,000 miles on it. The engine runs great, the tranny has no problems, the tires have +25k left on them, and body rust only began a couple years ago. BUT...I was just made aware by the dealership mechanics that the subframe is rusting near where it meet the frame and that I should be looking for a new vehicle within a few months. I now only drive it locally and never on freeways. If you own this, have your mechanic take a look at the frame to see how safe your vehicle is to drive. I think that Honda and the auto safety officials know about this problem and say it's normal wear and tear. If it was the body I would agree...but the frame? I'll likely not shop for Hondas again. And I'll be looking for a non-dealer mechanic that can identify these kinds of issues before the vehicle becomes undrivable and cannot be safely sold.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

'05 PILOT - 285,000+ miles and still purrs

DeeDee, 10/28/2016
2005 Honda Pilot LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

cons- (keep in mind that my vehicle is 11 years old) *one of my headlight lenses has moisture build up on the inside, *my cd changer malfunctions often (I have 2 cd players. The one that only takes one cd at a time plays just fine *the rubber molding around the lift gate is loosening *the keys no longer will fit nor unlock the driver door *had to replace the fan as a piece of it had come loose *when not in use, the air conditioning/heating unit makes a low grumbling noise unless the control knob is turned as far as it will go on hot or cold (when it is not in use) *the older it gets the more sensitive it is to gasoline grade. The engine light will come on if it doesn't like the gas but will go off when that gas has run out *sometimes I can smell antifreeze, but have never had a problem with the radiator or the engine temperature running too hot pros- I LOVE MY PILOT!!!!!! *It has a weird sound when it's starting up (I'd recognize my SUV starting up from any other vehicle) but it has NEVER failed me *it handles the road beautifully *it's still a smooth ride *the engine is still quiet *the sound system is awesome *it has taken me to Lake Erie from NC at least 5 times or more per year, several times to Miami, all over the east coast, in snow storms and heavy rain with no problems whatsoever! *I love the ease of changing from 2 rows of seats to 3 rows and everyone seats comfortably *it has plenty of storage spaces and cup holders *it has quick acceleration (hubby got a warning ticket for his speed, he wasn't ready!) *I have been blessed to never have had a major repair bill. The most that I have paid for a repair is $150 for the fan *there's so much more about my PILOT that I could add. I just love it and will get another one. My Dad is looking to get one and my daughter is looking for a CRV. Love the Honda motor!!!!

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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2.5 out of 5 stars

Unknown characteristic's

wkroberts, 08/20/2005
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather, Navigation (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful

Before you buy a Pilot, understand that it has a lot of “characteristics” that develop later in life. A shaking in the front end that occurs over 65. As 65 is the posted speed limit for the majority of this area, the local Honda dealer does not feel compelled to address the issue. The sloshing noise in the gas tank when it’s full. Honda knows about the issue, but as it only occurs when the tank is full, they see it as characteristic. The brakes make a terrible noise when the ABS kicks in and the front wheels tend to lock-up in a panic stop. This is partially due to the location of the ABS unit and “glazing” of the rotors. It tends to hesitate when cornering at low speeds.

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5 out of 5 stars

Old mule never dies

Wayne, 05/25/2017
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

I have a 2005 Honda Pilot with 226,000 miles on it. Had to replace one speed sensor in all this time. Great ride, a lot of room and a great car.

Performance
5 out of 5 stars
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4.88 out of 5 stars

2005 Pilot reflections after 80,000

Peter Fauerbach, 08/20/2010
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

Two areas of concern: poor sound system (need to fiddle, fiddle, fiddle with dials when switching from talk to music), and tailgate height when open. Other than those, it is a strong value. Very capable in icy snowy conditions.

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1.5 out of 5 stars

After the love is gone

No More Hondas?, 10/13/2010
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
11 of 13 people found this review helpful

I too used to think Honda was the best. Until our 2005 Pilot came to a sudden halt on the Dan Ryan. Lucky for us, it was at 1 a.m.. The transmission failed. Just. Like. That. No lights or warning. 73,200 miles. Of course we got the pleasure of paying for it. No help from Honda like the 2003 people. Before that we enjoyed ABS that locked up, tire pressure sensors that dealer quit trying to fix, peeling bumper paint, leaking doors that stink & gas mileage was a joke. We ditched it after we were told the engine was next to go. BTW, the dealer did all the routine man. on it. Hope you are all still Honda fans when your trans. goes out. Read the forums here. Not pretty.

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3.63 out of 5 stars

Disappointed in first Honda

Bob Rapoza, 07/24/2009
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful

Purchased this Honda because it carries up to 8 people we didn't want a bigger SUV. The battery died in the first year while on a trip, had to replace it. The rear latch for the hatch has fallen off three times and I have had to screw it back on. Makes a loud noise when driving at highway speed with windows down. Now at 63,000 miles, we have a broken motor mount. None of these items are serious, but I expected more from Honda, especially for the money we paid (we purchased the top model of the Pilot). The gas mileage also isn't very good for a 6 cylinder.

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5 out of 5 stars

Love My Honda

Alysha Turner, 11/10/2017
2005 Honda Pilot LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful

Honda pilot is a great and relaible car but is not good with gas at all. This thing goes through gas like it's free. A full tank only last 2 days and that's just pick up and drop off at school. Horrible gas mileage.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Awesome vehicle.

noone, 01/30/2016
2005 Honda Pilot LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
8 of 10 people found this review helpful

Doesn't get much better than this.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4 out of 5 stars

Not Bad

cupcake617, 01/13/2012
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather, Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful

Loved my Pilot I traded it in at 95,000 miles never had any trouble with it. Very reliable for us. My biggest complain was the terrible access to the 3rd row seating. The seat moved up no more then 12 inches, once my kids got in the back I couldn't get back to help them buckle up. Also, gas mileage very crummy.

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5 out of 5 stars

My First Car

TheKid_00, 01/14/2019
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather, Navigation (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I got this car from my dad about (1yr Ago), we are the second owners of this pilot since about 90k miles. Now at 165,000 it’s still kicking harder than you would think. It’s got quite a bit of pep in the V6 and it’s got a real comfortable ride (not the best road noise). We had the transmission and cooling system work done at two separate intervals (111,500) for transmission and (124,600) for the cooling system (Radiator, water pump, etc..) each $1100. But other wise this car has been beautiful! I do advise if you buy a pilot to check if it’s had it’s cooling system work done, if the car doesn’t cool it’s self right the engine overheats and I’ve heard of a few pilots just puttering out at around that 95k mile area. Great car, good investment, good for the Michigan snow. Would buy in the future.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.75 out of 5 stars

Great SUV

Johnny, 06/22/2005
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Only a month into ownership, but so far a great vehicle. A smooth ride, decent handling (great in rain), great stereo and abundant storage and cup holders are all pluses. Also, the leather is of high quality (it actually smells like leather, not plastic). Its not perfect. It would be more convenient if both front windows had express up and down. Also, when the windows are turned off (to prevent children from operating), the driver also is prevented from operating the passenger windows. Finally, the three power points for cell phones, etc. are not powered when the car is turned off. Finally, the sunroof is not express open or close.

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2.88 out of 5 stars

Honda won't fix recurring problems

wrod, 05/23/2006
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I have had problems from the beginning with my Pilot EX-L and Honda's customer no-service is maddening to deal with. You can't talk to anyone but the person who answers the phone, who is obviously trained at stonewalling the customer. The vehicle will hesitate and lose power and the gas mileage is HORRIBLE. I get better mileage from my V-8 truck than from the Pilot. If you buy a Pilot you better hope you don't have problems because Honda won't fix them.

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3.25 out of 5 stars

Definitely not a highway car

Buzzy, 04/07/2006
2005 Honda Pilot LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

The vehicle is an in-town performer. Quick and agile, good boat ramp puller, and plenty of family features. However, extreme road noise on the highway and lousy front brake rotor design makes for a disappointing product. If the load is light and the speeds are low, this is a good neighborhood vehicle. But a road warrior, it is not.

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5 out of 5 stars

Great SUV !

kiko, 04/16/2008
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

This vehicle is awesome. I own a BMW X3 and the Pilot comfort ride is just as good. I enjoy the fuel economy it gives compared to other SUVs. It's roomy and the engine has a nice pick up. I have the EX-L and love the upgrades. I just can't get enough of my Honda Pilot. TRUST ME, I have a Toyota 4runner, BMW X3, Nissan 300z, along with a small list of cars but I just can't get enough of the pilot. I love my Honda. It's one of the BEST car buys that I've made in my life !

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5 out of 5 stars

Solid SUV

soccermom, 01/11/2010
2005 Honda Pilot LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I debated between my 2005 Honda Pilot and a 2008 Jeep Commander. I settled on the Honda. Love the room and cargo space. I seldom use the 3rd row seating but it is roomy for the kids. The gas mileage is not bad for this SUV. Has great get up and go and looks nice on the road!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Good all around Car

sneeky127, 06/16/2008
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I waited until a nice long road trip to rate this car. Car was awesome on a 2400 mile round trip to FL and back with two kid,two strollers three big suitcases and all the stuff that goes along with a 3 year old and a 1 year old. Car got a little over 21 mpg. I think that is pretty good as I was averaging 80 mph with a loaded down car. Smooth, tight ride with plenty of power. I love the V6, lots of torque. I would improve a little on interior styling (which Honda may have already done). We were shopping for the 08 highlander and bought the 05 Pilot as the used highlanders weren't big enough and the used pilot had similar space as the new Highlander and a much better price! Certified used.

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3.5 out of 5 stars

Good - except for NAV system

Jim, 04/29/2005
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather, Navigation (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Purchased Fall 2004- Do not waste money on the Nav system. Mine was over 2 years out of date at the time of purchase. Contacted Honda America and received the answer that the DVD was the most current at the time my vehicle was delivered. I drive every day on roads that have been complete for over 2 years that do not even show on the NAV. Extremely disappointed with this response from Honda.

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3 out of 5 stars

Poor Reliability

jon_z, 04/23/2012
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
21 of 34 people found this review helpful

Just purchased my wife's Pilot about 5 months ago. Ride, handling and comfort are pretty good, but Honda reliability is not there. The radiator recently "failed" causing the coolant to be circulated into the transmission. Radiator/thermostat need to be replaced. The engine and transmission need to be flushed as well. So far this has cost us $1500. I'm just waiting for the transmission to fail requiring a $3-4K replacement all because of a defective radiator! Would NOT buy this vehicle again. Honda also will not admit there's a problem with their radiators on these Pilots. This barge replaced a 1998 Odyssey which was a far better car.

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5 out of 5 stars

Great car

Eric, 02/20/2016
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather, Navigation (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
8 of 12 people found this review helpful

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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1.5 out of 5 stars

Not Again

srm3057, 10/13/2010
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
6 of 9 people found this review helpful

I bought this 2005 Pilot new and have maintained it professionally with the thought of keeping it for many years. This vehicle has been one problem after another. Terrible gas mileage! At 50K miles the AC compressor just needed to be replaced at a cost of $1500.00 +/-. The reliability isn't there anymore! I would not recommend this manufacturer at all. They do not stand behind their product.

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3.63 out of 5 stars

Ok Vehicle

wyowolf, 02/05/2011
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I am the second owner of this Pilot. Its got about 107K miles on it. I got this vehicle for a replacement for my car. I thought Honda was a good choice, for safety, fuel economy, features, ETC. Well the safety is great. As far as the other goes, I am not sold on Honda. I am getting a whole 13-14 MPG in town. I by no means have a heavy foot, and 16 on the interstate. Other pilot owners I talk to love their Pilot and say it gets great mileage. The sound system is not that great, and its kinda plain Jane for the price.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

A smart choice

Akk, 07/06/2005
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather, Navigation (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

A perfect SUV! Reasonably styled, exceptionally built. Very smooth and powerful engine, good pickup, smartly placed controls, comfortable interiors (I have Pilot EX-Navi). Versatile SUV with good fuel economy for an SUV. The only maintenance has been routine checkups. Wish side airbags, moonroof were available. Size is a plus... large interior and cargo room, but looks/drives like a midsize. Paid close to invoice price.

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3.63 out of 5 stars

Have had a few months

road rat, 12/08/2005
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather, Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Have had 2005 Pilot for a few months now. I have not been able to get above 15.5 mpg around town; 18-19 on hwy. I am very disappointed in the mileage and would not recommend this vehicle. We got the vehicle for the Honda reputation. My big SUV gets better mileage than this and with more creature comforts. Vehicle is peppy and gets in/out of traffic well.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Love my Honda

RaylynnLois, 01/13/2010
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I had a 2005 Ex-L Honda Pilot. I loved it from the beginning. Best vehicle I have owned thus far. I am pretty sure it saved my life, with the safety features it has I am very grateful. I was recently in a head on collision and my honda held up its end, I walked away with minor aches and pains. By the looks of it I should have been much worse! I would buy another in a heart beat.

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3.5 out of 5 stars

Could be better!

Jim Collis, 10/10/2005
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I purchased the Honda because of the fine reviews that I read on the internet; but I was disappointed after I was able to put a few hundred miles on it. First of all, the gas mileage is HORRIBLE and not better than my Expedition. I only average 13 m.p.g. with mostly highway driving. Honda acknowledged the problem and hopefully they will address it. Next, the road noise is VERY high while on the highway. I keep thinking that a window is open somewhere. Also, after 70 m.p.h., the front wheel starts to shake. I took it to the dealer and they could not find the problem yet. The Pilot also seems unstable at highway speeds and drivers should be careful not to make sudden lane changes.

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3.5 out of 5 stars

Should be better

Jim, 10/25/2005
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Was happy with the pilot until I realized that the gas mileage is HORRIBLE!!! I average 13 MPG, with a lot of Highway driving. Steering wheel also vibrates on highway and there is a lot of road noise. I keep on thinking someone has a window open. At 1,500 miles smoke came out of air vents and it smelled like a electric fire. Also, be careful on the highway. The Pilot is very top heavy and will tip if you suddenly have to change lanes.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

High Quality SUV

Nancy, 07/04/2010
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather, Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I am the 2nd owner of this 2005 EX-L with built in navigation and entertainment system. Got it 2 yrs. ago as I wanted an SUV with excellent visibility and reliability. Honda has not disappointed me as vehicle has both. Only maintenance has been oil changes. I now need new tires at 63k miles-not bad! Gas mileage is not great-I average 18 MPG combined but this is a 6 cyl. so gas mileage is not going to be fantastic. I was thinking of downsizing to get better gas mileage. I looked at many other SUVs and none compared with the Pilot. I don't want to sacrifice comfort and space so I am keeping it. Excellent headroom, spacious interior. Rear a/c great for my dogs! Handles great in snow.

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3.25 out of 5 stars

It was totalled

Louis, 08/15/2007
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful

The Pilot EX was a total joy to drive until the tire pressure sensor simply has its own mind after 1 yr. But it's not the worst. Handling-wise it is OK. In snowy, icy and heavy rain condition, however, I only get 70% control of the car when driving 35 miles per hour. I consistently got overtaken by other cars as I drove on interstate. Different tires, same result. The worst: The vehicle simply lost control when I was avoiding an aggressive pass-on-the-right Subaru. My Pilot skated around on the (dry) interstate a few seconds at 60mph until it rolled over into the embankment and totalled. None of the airbags went off for no explanation. I was lucky to survive it.

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1.75 out of 5 stars

Soccer Moms May Love It-I Sure Don't

AUSeminole, 12/01/2004
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 6 people found this review helpful

Had it for 3 weeks, bought it brand new. Front end has a vibration right at 70 MPH which the dealer has so far been unable to correct. Check engine light came on after 2 weeks, and it's in the shop for the 2nd straight day. It takes about 10 minutes to fill up the gas tank. At highway speeds, a little accelerator pressure results in constant downshifts and hunting for the right gear. There's hesitation when slowing down and then hitting the gas. After having a Grand Cherokee V-8 for 8 years, this is a disappointing vehicle. Maybe it is a good soccer mom car to cruise around town in, but I'm used to a traditional SUV, and this isn't traditional.

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2.25 out of 5 stars

Buyer Beware

nicholas, 03/31/2005
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 6 people found this review helpful

My wife and I purchased our frist new car a 2004 Honda Pilot. At 19k miles, we had to have the block replaced due to a cracked block being installed at the factory. Now, Honda America is giving us the run around on the warranty...beware!

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2.5 out of 5 stars

Safety is questionable

ex, 07/31/2008
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful

My 05 Honda Pilot would come to a grinding halt without warning. The incidents occurred 3 times - 2 from taking off from a stop light and the 3rd time while driving a 55 mph. I was lucking all three cases that the individuals behind me were paying close attention.

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3.13 out of 5 stars

Used to like my Pilot but now....

ckshubin, 06/01/2007
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful

Initially I loved this car and was glad I bought Honda for longetivity and reliability. For the first 2 months of ownership I drove rental cars. Electrical problems galore. 2 1/2 years old and still weird electrical problems keep popping up. Interior rattles galore! Clunk in driver's seat. Have to update Nav DVD to current one or it won't work after awhile. Sounds like a bucket of bolts driving down the road. Seats hard and uncomfortable. Road noise is loud. Will be surprised it doesn't fall apart before the warranty expires. Will not be keeping long term like we do our other cars (10+ years). Am looking for a new car now to replace this Pilot.

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1 out of 5 stars

AVOID - Transmission Fails

Christopher Mason, 10/29/2016
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 10 people found this review helpful

Bought a 2005 Pilot with 150k on the engine. Ran great and girlfriend loved it (her car) until the transmission just went out. This is a know issue and I really wish I'd caught it before dumping $10k plus over $1k for new tires and breaks. Car didn't last a year. Bought Honda because like most we thought they 'ran forever'. Never again.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Honda Got It Right

Jax101, 12/21/2004
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This vehicle puts the "sport" in SUV perfectly. Very fun to drive. Plenty of room, numerous safety features, a great design, and very practical. Add that with Honda's build quality, and the fact that Honda's hold their value so well, and you really can't go wrong. Cheaper than a 4-Runner, and better than the rest.

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